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6 Rewarding Treks In Asia To Conquer With Your Loved Ones

Asia is a popular destination for people all around the world. One of the attractions in this part of the world is our weather – which ranges from dry and warm summers to cooler springs – making it ideal for the entire family to enjoy scenic hiking trails together.

For us in Singapore, relatively affordable budget airline routes to numerous trails in the region allow families to stay active, and include picturesque treks into their itineraries while enjoying short and interesting holidays together.

Here are four different trekking holiday locations in Asia that present a rewarding opportunity to bond with your loved ones.

#1 Hong Kong: Dragon’s Back

Hong Kong is commonly known for its dense skyscrapers and tasty delicacies. It is also a popular destination for many Singaporeans looking at short weekend getaways. While this vibrant city prides itself on quality dim sum, endless shopping and a dazzling skyline, it also offers serene hikes that allow you to escape the hustle and bustle.

One accessible trek to attempt is the Dragon’s Back trail which offers panoramic views of southeast Hong Kong and the South China Sea. Located near the centre of the city, it is convenient to travel to, making it easy to slot into your itinerary. The start of the trail is the most challenging with a relatively steeper climb as compared to the rest of the hike. However, this should not put you off as it is still considered child-friendly and possible to complete in two to three hours.

At 8.5 kilometres long, you would need close to four hours to complete this trek. At the end of the hike, you can consider rewarding yourself by stopping over at Big Wave Bay, a tranquil beach in the Southern district of Hong Kong where you can take a cool dip or refuel at one of the outdoor cafes.

Distance:

Approximately 8.5 kilometres

Peak:

Approximately 284 metres

Time:

Approximately 4 hours

Difficulty:

Moderate

#2 Taiwan: Yangmingshan

Most people travel to Taiwan to experience its lively night markets and sample its famed street food. From assorted bubble teas and grilled beef cubes to street games and its busy night life, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy in Taiwan.

Another attraction many people tend to overlook is its undulating landscapes with over 286 summits that are higher than 3,000 metres above sea level. You can burn off all the calories from your feasting at the night markets by hiking through Taiwan’s charming trails. There are a variety of hikes to choose from in Yangmingshan, a popular tourist site in the north of its capital city, Taipei. Walking tracks are paved and the inclines usually have stone steps that make it easier for families to scale.

At just 1.8 kilometres and 1.5 kilometres, a roundtrip on the Erziping and Mt. Caigongkeng trails will take about 50 to 80 minutes respectively. The gentle slopes make them both children and elderly friendly.

#3 Korea: Achasan Mountain

Achasan Mountain is located in the heart of Seoul, Korea. Getting there is easy with the mountain being located near the Gwangnaru subway station on the purple line.

This short hike is popular among the locals and makes for a nice half-day trip away from bustling Seoul city. Although there are steep hills along certain sections of the hike, it is generally easy to complete. Benches are located along the trail for those who need a short rest along the way.

While trekking to the summit, you will get to see Goguryeojeong Pavilion, built in tribute to Korea’s ancient Gorguryeo empire, and Haemaji Square, where you can witness captivating views of the sunrise. At the end of the hike, you will be rewarded with a spectacular bird’s-eye-view of Seoul and its prominent Han River, which flows through the heart of the city.

Distance:

Approximately 4 to 8 kilometres on varied trails

Peak:

Approximately 287 metres

Time:

1.5 to 2.5 hours

Difficulty:

Moderate

#4 Indonesia: Mt Batur

Achasan Mountain is located in the heart of Seoul, Korea. Getting there is easy with the mountain being located near the Gwangnaru subway station on the purple line.

This short hike is popular among the locals and makes for a nice half-day trip away from bustling Seoul city. Although there are steep hills along certain sections of the hike, it is generally easy to complete. Benches are located along the trail for those who need a short rest along the way.

While trekking to the summit, you will get to see Goguryeojeong Pavilion, built in tribute to Korea’s ancient Gorguryeo empire, and Haemaji Square, where you can witness captivating views of the sunrise. At the end of the hike, you will be rewarded with a spectacular bird’s-eye-view of Seoul and its prominent Han River, which flows through the heart of the city.

Located in the Northeast of Bali, Mt Batur is a popular location to catch the sunrise. It also happens to be one of Indonesia’s top active volcanoes. This gives tourists the opportunity to appreciate one of the richest volcanic landscapes in the world.

Considered a relatively easy hike for families that are fit, the 4.2 kilometres hike up Mt Batur takes approximately four to five hours and is the most challenging one on this list. The hike rewards you with stunning views of Lake Batur (a caldera or crater lake) against the backdrop of a majestic sunrise. On a clear day, you can also catch sight of the majestic Mt Abang and Mt Agung to the east.

To enjoy the best views, trekkers have to embark on this trail a few hours after midnight to make it to the peak in time for sunrise. You should hire a local guide to take you up for safety reasons.

When in Bali, be sure to include a trek up this active volcano on your itinerary instead of sticking to just your usual beach activities.

Distance:

Approximately 4.2 kilometres

Peak:

Approximately 1,717 metres

Time:

4 to 5 hours (ascend and descend)

Difficulty:

Moderate

#5 Malaysia: Mt Kinabalu

For families seeking an even greater challenge, nearby Mt Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia offers an opportunity to bond over a hike that will deliver both a testing and rewarding experience. One common misconception people may have is that Mt Kinabalu is the highest peak in Southeast Asia, this is not the case.

However, at 4,100 metres high, it is still a tough trek over 8.8 kilometres of uneven terrain which many people complete over a two-days, overnight trip. Not to worry, as safety regulations require you to hire a licensed Mountain Guide to accompany your family for the hike.

If you decide to take on this trek, you should begin preparation two to three months beforehand with some light outdoor cardiovascular fitness training. What’s great is that you can use some of the trails highlighted above or even explore others in our backyard.

Distance:

Approximately 8.8 kilometres

Peak:

Approximately 4,100 metres

Time:

2 days (overnight)

Difficulty:

Challenging

#6 Singapore: Southern Ridges

For families not ready to trek overseas, Singapore has manageable, yet lovely trails that are worth a weekend hike with the family. Amongst these are the Southern Ridges, which connect five parks with a 10-kilometre trail through historic sites and lush green spaces, and MacRitchie Reservoir Park, where you can take part in both land and water recreational activities, which are both popular, family-friendly spots.

This trek includes a number of mini-attractions including Henderson Waves, Forest Walk and HortPark. Along the course of your trek, you will be able to spot wildlife, native trees and get a good bird’s eye view of Singapore.

Distance:

Approximately 10 kilometres

Peak:

Not applicable

Time:

3 to 5 hours (one way)

Difficulty:

Easy

Keeping active together

If you are planning to include hikes in your travels, think ahead and check online or with local tour organisers to choose a time when the weather is optimal for trekking. Don’t forget to pack the necessary essentials for your hikes, especially if you are bringing young children along. This includes appropriate footwear and attire, sufficient water, snacks, basic first aid supplies and sunblock.

With every step taken, you are working towards a healthier you. Doing these activities with your family not only promotes physical activity but also quality family time together. With AIA Vitality, you can be rewarded for tmaking these steps towards a healthier lifestyle. Rewards include better premium rates and other great deals that you can enjoy with your family.

Another thing you should not leave home without is adequate travel insurance. AIA Around The World Plus provides comprehensive coverage spanning every country, all ages , 45 days of follow-up treatment after your return and up to $2 million in medical expenses incurred overseas.

1 From two weeks up

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